Laura Bicker, BBC’s China correspondent, and Cindy Yu, host of the Spectator’s Chinese Whispers, dive into the escalating trade war between the U.S. and China. They analyze Trump's tariffs and China's strategic responses, exploring how the tension shapes global economic dynamics. Joining them is Ben Westhoff, investigative journalist discussing the opioid crisis, linking it to political decisions like tariffs. Together, they unveil the intricate web of trade, politics, and the pressing need for solutions to the addiction epidemic.
The podcast discusses how the U.S. imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, prompting China's strategic retaliatory measures on select American goods.
The narrative highlights the fentanyl crisis and emphasizes the need for a shift in viewing addiction as a public health issue rather than a moral failing.
Deep dives
The Importance of Remote Work Themes
The discussion highlights how the podcast's hosts are currently experiencing a theme centered around remote work, sparked by their relocation to a different studio due to equipment issues. This leads to the introduction of a new segment called 'Remoter Worker,' inviting listeners to share their own experiences of working from unusual locations. There is excitement surrounding the potential stories that could arise from this new theme, especially as the original 'Remoter Voter' concept previously yielded intriguing entries. This continuous focus on remote working captivates listeners while revealing the evolving nature of work environments in today's world.
Tariffs and Trade Tensions
The podcast delves into the ongoing situation regarding tariffs imposed by the United States, particularly focusing on the postponement of tariffs on Canada and Mexico, while moving forward with a 10% tariff on all imports from China. China's measured retaliatory response, imposing targeted tariffs on select American imports such as liquefied natural gas and crude oil, indicates a strategic approach to this trade conflict. Analysts suggest that China's careful selection of targets points to a desire for negotiation, keeping communication channels open between the two nations. Insight is provided about the complexities and potential consequences of these tariffs, influencing global trade dynamics.
Fentanyl Crisis and Global Supply Chains
The podcast discusses the fentanyl crisis in the United States, linked to Canadian, Mexican, and Chinese supply chains. Fentanyl, originally developed as a hospital painkiller, has surged as a major drug of abuse, driven by overprescription practices leading to widespread addiction. Investigative insights reveal that the raw materials for fentanyl production primarily come from China, complicating the international drug trade dynamics. The narrative emphasizes how the epidemic not only affects individual lives but poses significant challenges for law enforcement and public health policy in addressing the crisis.
The Complexity of Addictions and Treatment
The conversation further examines the issue of fentanyl addiction, highlighting the drastic increase in overdose deaths linked to this powerful substance. Experts argue that combating the problem requires not only law enforcement but also an emphasis on treatment options for those struggling with addiction. Various treatment drugs, including Naltrexone, are explored as potential solutions, yet there remains a lack of awareness and availability for those who need them. The discussion underscores a need for a paradigm shift in public perception, moving from viewing addiction as a moral failing to recognizing it as a significant public health concern.
Today, we look at what could be the start of a trade war between the US and China.
After postponing tariffs on Canada and Mexico, President Trump has introduced a 10% tax on all goods imports from China. Early this morning Beijing announced it would impose a retaliatory 10% levy, albeit on fewer products.
Adam is joined by Laura Bicker, the BBC’s China Correspondent and Cindy Yu from the Spectator’s Chinese Whispers podcast.
Plus, Adam speaks to journalist Ben Westhoff about the fentanyl crisis in America and why President Trump had cited it as the reason behind raising taxes on Mexican, Canadian and Chinese goods.
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Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Adam Fleming. It was made by Jack Maclaren with Anna Harris and Shiler Mahmoudi. The technical producer was Stephen Bailey. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.
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